The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance is one of Europe’s leading contemporary music schools, with over 40 years of experience helping students build careers in the music and creative industries. We offer specialist music education at campuses in London, Liverpool and Leeds, delivering industry-aligned degrees and higher education qualifications rooted in real-world practice and creativity.

ICMP is known for its tight-knit, supportive community, expert tutors and strong links across the music business, from labels and promoters to managers and creative professionals.

ICMP is known for its tight-knit, supportive community, expert tutors and strong links across the music business, from labels and promoters to managers and creative professionals.

Here at ICMP you can study music at Cert HE, BA (Hons) and postgraduate levels with a focus on areas that reflect the modern music industry.

• Music Performance – develop your skills as a live and studio performer.
• Music Production – learn professional techniques in recording, mixing and producing music.
• Live Event Management – gain the skills to run gigs, tours and festivals.
• Music Marketing – explore promotion, branding and digital strategy for artists and businesses.
• Music Business – understand how the music industry works, including contracts, rights and entrepreneurship.
• And more! We’re always developing our programmes.

Students benefit from hands-on learning with real industry gear, workshops with visiting professionals and pathways into creative careers across performance, production, management, marketing and business.

ICMP alumni are active across the global music industry, working as performers, producers, songwriters, managers and entrepreneurs. Graduates have gone on to build careers in a variety of high-profile contexts and creative roles. Notable past students include artists and industry figures who continue to shape contemporary music culture.

Life at ICMP is centred around creativity, collaboration and community. You’ll meet students from across the UK and internationally, working together on projects, bands, recordings and performances. Outside your course, there are opportunities to attend workshops, gigs, networking events and socials that connect you with peers and professionals alike. Whether you’re jamming with other musicians, organising an event or exploring one of the vibrant cities where we’re based, student life at ICMP is active, social and industry-focused.

ICMP campuses in London, Liverpool and Leeds are equipped with industry-standard facilities designed to support your creative and technical development:

• Professional recording studios and control rooms
• Practice rooms with amps, instruments and PA systems
• Performance spaces for gigs, showcases and rehearsals
• Music technology labs with the latest software and hardware
• Collaborative spaces for group work and peer creativity

These facilities give you access to the tools and spaces professional musicians and producers use, so you can make, record and perform your work to the highest standard.

Getting to know ICMP and experiencing life here is easy through a range of events designed for prospective students:

• Open Days – explore our campuses, speak with tutors and see facilities in person.
• Virtual Open Days – join live online sessions to discover our courses and community.
• Campus Tours – book guided walkthroughs to see where you’ll study and create.
• Exclusive Invitations to Songwriters Circles – ICMP’s regular Songwriters’ Circle brings students and industry pros together to share music, perform and build networks.